The Qara Qoyunlu, or "Black Sheep," was a Turkmen tribal confederation that emerged in the 14th century in the region of modern-day Iran and Iraq. They were known for their military prowess and played a significant role in the political landscape of the Middle East during the late medieval period. The confederation was primarily composed of the Oghuz Turks and was influential in the establishment of various dynasties. The Qara Qoyunlu reached their peak in the 15th century under the leadership of Jahan Shah, who expanded their territory significantly. They were known for their patronage of the arts and culture, contributing to the rich heritage of the region. The confederation eventually fell to the Aq Qoyunlu and later to the Safavid Empire, marking the end of their dominance.